I would have enjoyed this book far more if it hadn’t been so freaking big; I cannot fathom why anyone would think a YA graphic novel needed to be the size or a coffee table book. It was unwieldy, it was heavy, it hit me in the face several times while I struggled to hold it. And it’s such a shame because the content is a relatable coming-of-age story with good characters and decent artwork.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review.

If you're looking for an engaging and thought-provoking graphic novel, Adam de Souza's The Gulf is a compelling choice. This young adult (YA) graphic novel combines the elements of a coming-of-age story with a road trip adventure, capturing the complexities of teenage life and the quest for identity.

The Gulf follows a group of high school friends who, disillusioned with their current lives and facing the pressures of impending adulthood, decide to run away to join a commune on a remote Gulf Island off the coast of Vancouver. The story centers around Oli, who has long dreamt of escaping to this commune. As graduation looms, she convinces her friends Milo and Alvin to join her on this journey. The narrative explores their interpersonal dynamics, the challenges they face, and the profound realizations they encounter along the way.

The artwork in The Gulf is both striking and evocative. De Souza uses a limited color palette that shifts to reflect the emotional landscape of the characters, enhancing the storytelling through visual means. The hand-inked drawings and varied panel compositions create a dynamic reading experience that keeps the audience engaged.

For anyone seeking a graphic novel that is both visually stunning and rich in narrative, The Gulf by Adam de Souza is a must-read. It offers a free-spirited exploration of youth, friendship, and the search for meaning in an increasingly complex world. Whether you're a fan of YA literature or graphic novels, this book promises an enriching experience that resonates on multiple levels. ( )

The Gulf by Adam De Souza was not what I expected. This was my first graphic novel and I was surprised that I actually enjoyed it. Fast read and a great book for those leaving High School and making decisions for the rest of their lives. It gives you things to think about and situations to compare. Definitely recommend for the teenagers. ( )

Very nice book for young readers , it talks about very important topics , focuses on the young people's mindsets. I would have liked if it was a 2 parts book, but its still an amazing book! very exciting to read and puts you into a different world with unique characters and delivers a very important message. ( )